The Los Angeles Lakers enjoyed a strong 2010-11 season, finishing first in the Pacific Division and second in the Western Conference with an impressive 57-25 record. Led by All-Star Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol, the team showcased their championship pedigree by winning 17 of 18 games after the All-Star break and successfully defeating the New Orleans Hornets in the first round of the playoffs. Although their quest for a third consecutive title ended in the Conference Semifinals, the season was highlighted by the team raising their 16th championship banner and Phil Jackson concluding his legendary coaching career. Widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Kobe Bryant was a 2020 Hall of Fame inductee and five-time NBA champion who spent his entire 20-season career with the Los Angeles Lakers, earning 18 All-Star selections and the 2008 league MVP award.